Cartridge having coupling member and detection body

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

0001This application claims priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2011-190035 filed Aug. 31, 2011. The entire content of this priority application is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

0002The present invention relates to a cartridge for being mounted in an image forming apparatus of an electrophotographic type.

BACKGROUND

0003There is known, as a printer of the electrophotographic type, such a printer that includes a photosensitive body and a developing cartridge for supplying toner to the photosensitive body.

0004Such a type of printer includes a new-product detecting unit for judging information on a developing cartridge mounted in the printer. For example, the new-product detecting unit is for judging whether or not the cartridge is a new product that is newly mounted in the printer.

0005For example, there has been proposed a laser printer. The laser printer has a main casing, in which a developing cartridge is detachably mountable. The main casing is provided with an actuator and a photosensor. The developing cartridge rotatably supports a detection gear. The detection gear is provided with a protrusion that is for being in abutment contact with the actuator. When the developing cartridge is mounted in the main casing, the detection gear is driven to rotate. The protrusion causes the actuator to swing. The photosensor detects the swinging movement of the actuator. The laser printer judges information on the developing cartridge based on the detection results by the photosensor.

SUMMARY

0006In the laser printer described above, the detection gear is mounted on a side wall of the developing cartridge, on which an input gear is also mounted. The input gear is for receiving a driving force from the main casing.

0007An object of the invention is to provide an improved cartridge that can be reduced in size.

0008In order to attain the above and other objects, the invention provides a cartridge, including: a housing; a coupling member; a detection body; a rotating member; a first driving force transmission member; and a second driving force transmission member. The housing has a developer accommodating portion configured to accommodate developer therein and includes a first side wall and a second side wall, the first side wall and the second side wall being spaced apart from each other in a predetermined direction and opposing with each other in the predetermined direction, a from-first-to-second direction being defined along the predetermined direction as being directed from the first side wall to the second side wall. The coupling member is configured to receive driving force from outside, the coupling member is disposed at a position opposite to the developer accommodating portion with respect to the first side wall. The detection body is for being detected by an external detecting unit, the detection body is disposed at a position opposite to the developer accommodating portion with respect to the second side wall. The rotating member is configured to rotate around a rotational axis extending in the predetermined direction, at least part of the rotating member being disposed between the first and second side walls. The first driving force transmission member is configured to rotate together with the rotating member around the rotational axis, is positioned at the same side with the coupling member with respect to the first side wall, and is configured to transmit the driving force from the coupling member to the rotating member. The second driving force transmission member is configured to rotate together with the rotating member around the rotational axis, is positioned at the same side with the detection body with respect to the second side wall, and is configured to transmit the driving force from the rotating member to the detection body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0009The particular features and advantages of the invention as well as other objects will become apparent from the following description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

0010<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a cross-sectional view of a printer taken along a line that extends in a right-left center of the printer, developing cartridges according to a first embodiment of the invention being mounted in the printer;

0011<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a perspective view of the developing cartridge shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, the developing cartridge being seen from its upper left side;

0012<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a perspective view of the developing cartridge seen from its upper right side;

0013<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is an exploded perspective view of a driving unit shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>, the driving unit being seen from its upper left side;

0014<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is an exploded perspective view of an electric-power supplying unit shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, the electric-power supplying unit being seen from its upper right side;

0015<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a perspective view of an electrode member shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, the electrode member being seen from an upper left side;

0016<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7A-7C</figref> illustrate a new-product detection gear shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, in which <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7A</figref> is a perspective view of the new-product detection gear seen from an upper right side, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7B</figref> is a right side view of the new-product detection gear, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7C</figref> is a sectional view of a detection end portion in the new-product detection gear;

0017<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is a right side view of the developing cartridge shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>;

0018<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> is a plan view of the electric-power supplying unit shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>;

0019<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> is a perspective view of a main-casing-side electrode unit seen from an upper right side in the printer of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>;

0020<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 11-13</figref> illustrate how a swing electrode shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> swings in the printer, wherein <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> shows a state where the developing cartridge is not mounted in the main casing and the swing electrode is located at a lower disconnection position, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> shows the state where the developing cartridge is mounted in the main casing and the swing electrode is located at a connection position, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> shows a state where the developing cartridge is mounted in the main casing and the swing electrode is located at an upper disconnection position;

0021<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 14-18</figref> illustrate how a new-product detection process is executed, wherein <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> shows the state just after the developing cartridge is newly mounted in the main casing and the swing electrode is in contact with an electric-power receiving portion in the developing cartridge, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> shows the state which follows the state of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> and in which a warming up operation begins and the swing electrode is separated away from the electric-power receiving portion, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> shows the state which follows the state of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> and in which the swing electrode is again in contact with the electric-power receiving portion, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref> shows the state which follows the state of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> and in which the swing electrode is again separated away from the electric-power receiving portion, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref> shows the state which follows the state of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref> and in which the swing electrode is again in contact with the electric-power receiving portion;

0022<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref> is a perspective view of a developing cartridge according to a second embodiment, the developing cartridge being seen from an upper right side;

0023<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 20-22</figref> illustrate how a new-product detection process is executed onto the developing cartridge of the second embodiment, wherein <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20</figref> shows the state just after the developing cartridge is newly mounted in the main casing and the swing electrode is in contact with the electric-power receiving portion, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref> shows the state which follows the state of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20</figref> and in which a warming up operation begins and the swing electrode is separated away from the electric-power receiving portion, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref> shows the state which follows the state of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref> and in which the swing electrode is again in contact with the electric-power receiving portion;

0024<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23</figref> is a perspective view of an electric-power supplying unit provided in a developing cartridge according to a third embodiment, the electric-power supplying unit being seen from an upper right side of the developing cartridge;

0025<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 24</figref> illustrates the configuration for transmitting a driving force in the developing cartridge of the third embodiment;

0026<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 25</figref> is a perspective view of an electric-power supplying unit provided in a developing cartridge according to a fourth embodiment, the electric-power supplying unit being seen from an upper right side of the developing cartridge;

0027<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 26</figref> illustrates the configuration for transmitting a driving force in the developing cartridge of the fourth embodiment;

0028<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 27</figref> is a perspective view of an electric-power supplying unit provided in a developing cartridge according to a fifth embodiment, the electric-power supplying unit being seen from an upper right side of the developing cartridge;

0029<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28</figref> is a perspective view of a developing cartridge according to a sixth embodiment seen from an upper right side;

0030<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 29</figref> is a perspective view of an electric-power supplying unit shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28</figref>, the electric-power supplying unit being seen from the upper right side;

0031<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 30</figref> illustrates the configuration for transmitting a driving force in the developing cartridge of the sixth embodiment;

0032<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 31</figref> is a perspective view of a developing cartridge according to a seventh embodiment, the developing cartridge being seen from its upper right side;

0033<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 32-34</figref> illustrate how a rotation plate shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 31</figref> rotates, wherein <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 32</figref> shows the state just after the developing cartridge of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 31</figref> is newly mounted in the main casing of a printer of the seventh embodiment and the rotation plate is at a first position, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 33</figref> shows the state which follows the state of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 32</figref> and in which the rotation plate is at a second position, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 34</figref> shows the state which follows the state of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 33</figref> and in which the rotation plate is at a third position;

0034<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 35</figref> is a front view of a fixed electrode and a moving electrode that are provided in the main casing of the printer of the seventh embodiment;

0035<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 36A-36C</figref> illustrate how a new-product detection process is executed according to the seventh embodiment, wherein <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36A</figref> shows the state just after the developing cartridge is newly mounted in the main casing and the moving electrode is in contact with an electric-power receiving portion of the developing cartridge, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36B</figref> shows the state which follows the state of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36A</figref> and in which a warming up operation begins and the moving electrode is separated away from the electric-power receiving portion, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36C</figref> shows the state which follows the state of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36B</figref> and in which the moving electrode is again in contact with the electric-power receiving portion;

0036<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 37</figref> is a perspective view of a developing cartridge according to an eighth embodiment, the developing cartridge being seen from its upper right side;

0037<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 38-40</figref> illustrate how a slide plate shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 37</figref> slides, wherein <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 38</figref> shows the state just after the developing cartridge of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 37</figref> is newly mounted in the main casing of a printer of the eighth embodiment and the slide plate is at a first position, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 39</figref> shows the state which follows the state of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 38</figref> and in which the slide plate is at a second position, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 40</figref> shows the state which follows the state of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 39</figref> and in which the slide plate is at a third position; and

0038<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 41A-41C</figref> illustrate how a new-product detection process is executed according to the eighth embodiment, wherein <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 41A</figref> shows the state just after the developing cartridge is newly mounted in the main casing and the moving electrode is in contact with an electric-power receiving portion of the developing cartridge, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 41B</figref> shows the state which follows the state of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 41A</figref> and in which a warming up operation begins and the moving electrode is separated away from the electric-power receiving portion, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 41C</figref> shows the state which follows the state of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 41B</figref> and in which the moving electrode is again in contact with the electric-power receiving portion.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

0039A cartridge according to embodiments of the invention will be described while referring to the accompanying drawings wherein like parts and components are designated by the same reference numerals to avoid duplicating description.

0040A cartridge according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-18</figref>.

00411. Overall Configuration of Printer

0042As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, a printer <b>1</b> is a color printer of a horizontal, direct tandem type.

0043In the following description, at the time of referring to directions, with respect to the situation where the printer <b>1</b> is placed horizontally for being used by a user, the left side on paper surface of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is referred to as front side, and the right side on paper surface of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> as rear side. The criteria of left and right are set when the front side of the printer <b>1</b> is seen. That is, the near side on paper surface of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is referred to as right side, and the back side on paper surface as left side.

0044The printer <b>1</b> is provided with a main casing <b>2</b> that is substantially in a box shape. A top cover <b>6</b> is swingably provided on a top end of the main casing <b>2</b>, with a rear end of the top cover <b>6</b> serving as a fulcrum. The top cover <b>6</b> is for opening and closing a main-casing opening <b>5</b>. The printer <b>1</b> is detachably mounted with four process cartridges <b>11</b> corresponding to each color.

0045The process cartridges <b>11</b> are each mountable in and detachable from the main casing <b>2</b>. When being mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>, the process cartridges <b>11</b> are spaced out from each other along the front-back direction and are arranged in parallel above a paper feeding portion <b>3</b>. The process cartridges <b>11</b> each include a drum cartridge <b>24</b> and a developing cartridge <b>25</b> according to the first embodiment. The developing cartridge <b>25</b> is detachably mountable on the drum cartridge <b>24</b>.

0046The drum cartridge <b>24</b> is provided with a photosensitive drum <b>15</b>.

0047The photosensitive drum <b>15</b> is formed in a cylindrical shape that is elongated in the left-right direction, and is rotatably mounted in the drum cartridge <b>24</b>.

0048The developing cartridge <b>25</b> is provided with a developing roller <b>16</b>.

0049The developing roller <b>16</b> has a developing roller shaft <b>30</b>. The developing roller shaft <b>30</b> is formed of metal and extends in the left-right direction. The developing roller <b>16</b> is mounted in the rear end portion of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> so that the rear side of the developing roller <b>16</b> is exposed to the outside of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> and is in contact with the front upper side of the photosensitive drum <b>15</b>. The developing roller <b>16</b> rotates about a central axis A<b>1</b> of the developing roller shaft <b>30</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>).

0050The developing cartridge <b>25</b> is further provided with a supply roller <b>27</b> and a layer thickness regulating blade <b>28</b>. The supply roller <b>27</b> is for supplying toner to the developing roller <b>16</b>. The layer thickness regulating blade <b>28</b> is for regulating the thickness of toner supplied on the developing roller <b>16</b>. The developing cartridge <b>25</b> has a toner accommodating portion <b>79</b> above the supply roller <b>27</b> and the layer thickness regulating blade <b>28</b>. Toner is accommodated in the toner accommodating portion <b>79</b>. An agitator <b>80</b> is provided in the toner accommodating portion <b>79</b>. The agitator <b>80</b> is for stirring toner accommodated in the toner accommodating portion <b>79</b>.

0051The supply roller <b>27</b> has a supply roller shaft <b>29</b>. The supply roller shaft <b>29</b> is formed of metal and extends in the left-right direction. The supply roller <b>27</b> is in contact with the front upper side of the developing roller <b>16</b>.

0052The layer thickness regulating blade <b>28</b> is in contact with the rear upper side of the developing roller <b>16</b>.

0053The agitator <b>80</b> has an agitator shaft <b>76</b> and an agitating blade <b>77</b>. The agitator shaft <b>76</b> extends in the left-right direction. The agitating blade <b>77</b> extends radially outwardly from the agitator shaft <b>76</b>. The agitator <b>80</b> rotates around a central axis A<b>2</b> of the agitator shaft <b>76</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>).

0054Toner supplied from the toner accommodating portion <b>79</b> is triboelectrically charged to positive polarity between the supply roller <b>27</b> and the developing roller <b>16</b>, and is borne on the surface of the developing roller <b>16</b> as a thin layer of a constant thickness.

0055A surface of each photosensitive drum <b>15</b> is uniformly charged by a Scorotron-type charger <b>26</b>, and is then exposed to light that is irradiated by an LED unit <b>12</b> on the basis of predetermined image data. As a result, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the basis of the image data. Then, toner supported on the developing roller <b>16</b> is supplied to the electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum <b>15</b>. As a result, a toner image (developer image) is borne on the surface of the photosensitive drum <b>15</b>.

0056Sheets of paper S are stored in a paper feed tray <b>7</b> provided in a bottom portion of the main casing <b>2</b>. Sheets of paper S are fed by a pickup roller <b>8</b>, paper feeding rollers <b>9</b> and a pair of registration rollers <b>10</b>, and are conveyed through a U-turn path to the rear upper side of the main casing <b>2</b>. One paper sheet is fed at a time to between a photosensitive drum <b>15</b> and a conveyance belt <b>19</b> at a predetermined timing, and is conveyed by the conveyance belt <b>19</b> from the front to the rear between each photosensitive drum <b>15</b> and each transfer roller <b>20</b>. At this time, the toner image of each color is sequentially transferred to the paper sheet S, and a color image is formed as a result.

0057Then, the paper sheet S is heated and pressed while passing between a heating roller <b>21</b> and a pressure roller <b>22</b>. At this time, the color image is thermally fixed onto the paper sheet S.

0058Then, the paper sheet S is conveyed through a U-turn path to the front upper side of the main casing <b>2</b> and is finally discharged onto a paper discharge tray <b>23</b> provided on the top cover <b>6</b>.

00592. Details of Developing Cartridge

0060As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 and 3</figref>, the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is provided with a cartridge frame <b>31</b>, a driving unit <b>32</b>, and an electric-power supplying unit <b>33</b>. The driving unit <b>32</b> is disposed on the left side of the cartridge frame <b>31</b>, while the electric-power supplying unit <b>33</b> is disposed on the right side of the cartridge frame <b>31</b>.

0061Incidentally, at the time of describing the developing cartridge <b>25</b> and referring to directions, a side on which the developing roller <b>16</b> is disposed is referred to as the rear side of the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, and a side on which the layer thickness regulating blade <b>28</b> is disposed is referred to as upper side. That is, the up-down and front-back directions associated with the developing cartridge <b>25</b> are different from the up-down and front-back directions associated with the printer <b>1</b>. The developing cartridge <b>25</b> is mounted in the drum cartridge <b>24</b> and the printer <b>1</b> in such an orientation that the rear side of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> corresponds to a rear lower side of the printer <b>1</b>, and the front side of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> corresponds to a front upper side of the printer <b>1</b>.

0062(1) Cartridge Frame

0063The cartridge frame <b>31</b> is formed substantially in a box shape extending in the left-right direction. The cartridge frame <b>31</b> has a first frame <b>34</b> and a second frame <b>35</b>. The first frame <b>34</b> makes up a lower side of the cartridge frame <b>31</b>, and the second frame <b>35</b> makes up an upper side of the cartridge frame <b>31</b>.

0064(1-1) First Frame

0065As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4 and 5</figref>, the first frame <b>34</b> integrally has a pair of left and right side walls <b>36</b>, a front wall <b>37</b>, and a lower wall <b>38</b>, and is formed in a frame shape that has a bottom and is open to the upper and rear sides.

0066Incidentally, in the following description, the left-side side wall <b>36</b> is referred to as a left wall <b>36</b>L, and the right-side side wall <b>36</b> is referred to as a right wall <b>36</b>R.

0067The side walls <b>36</b> are both formed substantially in the shape of a rectangle extending in the up-down and front-back directions when viewed from the sides. The side walls <b>36</b> are spaced out from each other in the left-right direction and are disposed so as to face each other. Each side wall <b>36</b> is formed with a supply roller shaft exposure through-hole <b>39</b>, a developing roller shaft exposure groove <b>40</b>, and an agitator shaft exposure through-hole <b>41</b>.

0068The supply roller shaft exposure through-hole <b>39</b> is located in the lower rear end portion of the side wall <b>36</b>, and penetrates the side wall <b>36</b>. The supply roller shaft exposure through-hole <b>39</b> is substantially in a rectangular shape when viewed from the side. Every side of the supply roller shaft exposure through-hole <b>39</b> is longer than the diameter of the left and right end portions of the supply roller shaft <b>29</b>. The left and right end portions of the supply roller shaft <b>29</b> are exposed to the outside in the left-right direction from the side walls <b>36</b> via the supply roller shaft exposure through-holes <b>39</b>.

0069The developing roller shaft exposure groove <b>40</b> is a cutout formed on the upper rear edge of the side wall <b>36</b>. The developing roller shaft exposure groove <b>40</b> is substantially in a U-shape when viewed from the side, with the opening of the U shape facing upwardly and rearwardly and the bottom of the U shape facing downwardly and forwardly. The width (up-down directional length) of the developing roller shaft exposure groove <b>40</b> is larger than the diameter of the left and right end portions of the developing roller shaft <b>30</b>. The left and right end portions of the developing roller shaft <b>30</b> are exposed to the outside in the left-right direction from the side walls <b>36</b> via the developing roller shaft exposure groove <b>40</b>.

0070The agitator shaft exposure through-hole <b>41</b> is located in the front end portion of the side wall <b>36</b>, and penetrates the side wall <b>36</b>. The agitator shaft exposure through-hole <b>41</b> is substantially in a circular shape when viewed from the side. The diameter of the agitator shaft exposure through-hole <b>41</b> is larger than the diameter of the left and right end portions of the agitator shaft <b>76</b>. The left and right end portions of the agitator shaft <b>76</b> are exposed to the outside in the left-right direction from the side walls <b>36</b> via the agitator shaft exposure through-hole <b>41</b>.

0071As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, a fitting projection <b>45</b> is provided on the right wall <b>36</b>R.

0072The fitting projection <b>45</b> is located on the front side of the supply roller shaft exposure through-hole <b>39</b>. The fitting projection <b>45</b> is substantially in a columnar shape and projects rightwardly from the right surface of the right wall <b>36</b>R. The fitting projection <b>45</b> is provided with two pieces of protrusions <b>47</b> at its left haft part. One protrusion <b>47</b> is formed on the front side of the fitting projection <b>45</b>, and the other is on the lower side of the fitting projection <b>45</b>. The protrusions <b>47</b> project from the fitting projection <b>45</b> radially outwardly. Each protrusion <b>47</b> extends in the left-right direction along the left half part of the fitting projection <b>45</b>.

0073The front wall <b>37</b> extends in the left-right direction, and spans between the front edges of the side walls <b>36</b>.

0074The lower wall <b>38</b> extends in the left-right direction, and spans between the lower edges of the side walls <b>36</b> while being in continuity with the lower edges of the front wall <b>37</b>.

0075(1-2) Second Frame

0076The second frame <b>35</b> makes up the upper side of the cartridge frame <b>31</b>, and is substantially in a rectangular plate shape in a plan view. The layer thickness regulating blade <b>28</b> is attached to the rear edge of the second frame <b>35</b>, and contacts the developing roller <b>16</b> from above.

0077(2) Driving Unit

0078As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 and 4</figref>, the driving unit <b>32</b> includes a bearing member <b>51</b>, a gear train <b>52</b>, and a driving-side gear cover <b>53</b>.

0079(2-1) Bearing Member

0080The bearing member <b>51</b> is substantially in a rectangular plate shape when viewed from the side. The bearing member <b>51</b> is formed with a developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>54</b>, a supply roller shaft support through-hole <b>55</b>, a coupling support shaft <b>56</b>, and an idle gear support shaft <b>57</b>. The developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>54</b> is for supporting the developing roller shaft <b>30</b>. The supply roller shaft support through-hole <b>55</b> is for supporting the supply roller shaft <b>29</b>.

0081The developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>54</b> is located in the upper rear end portion of the bearing member <b>51</b> and penetrates the bearing member <b>51</b>. The developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>54</b> is substantially in a circular shape when viewed from the side. The inner diameter of the developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>54</b> is substantially equal to or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the developing roller shaft <b>30</b>.

0082The supply roller shaft support through-hole <b>55</b> is located on the front lower side of the developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>54</b> and penetrates the bearing member <b>51</b>. The supply roller shaft support through-hole <b>55</b> is substantially in a circular shape when viewed from the side. The inner diameter of the supply roller shaft support through-hole <b>55</b> is substantially equal to or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the supply roller shaft <b>29</b>.

0083The coupling support shaft <b>56</b> is located on the front side of the developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>54</b> and on the upper side of the supply roller shaft support through-hole <b>55</b>. The coupling support shaft <b>56</b> is substantially in a columnar shape and protrudes leftwardly from the left surface of the bearing member <b>51</b>.

0084The idle gear support shaft <b>57</b> is located on the front end portion of the bearing member <b>51</b>. The idle gear support shaft <b>57</b> is substantially in a columnar shape and protrudes leftwardly from the left surface of the bearing member <b>51</b>. An idle gear <b>64</b> (described later) is supported on the idle gear support shaft <b>57</b> so as to be rotatable relative to the idle gear support shaft <b>57</b>.

0085The bearing member <b>51</b> is fitted onto the left side of the left wall <b>36</b>L in such a way that the left end portion of the developing roller shaft <b>30</b> is inserted into the developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>54</b>, and the left end portion of the supply roller shaft <b>29</b> is inserted into the supply roller shaft support through-hole <b>55</b>. As a result, the coupling support shaft <b>56</b> is disposed on the left side of the rear end portion of the toner accommodating portion <b>79</b>.

0086(2-2) Gear Train

0087The gear train <b>52</b> includes a development coupling <b>61</b>, a developing gear <b>62</b>, a supply gear <b>63</b>, the idle gear <b>64</b>, a first agitator gear <b>72</b>, and a second agitator gear <b>78</b> (See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>).

0088The development coupling <b>61</b> is supported on the coupling support shaft <b>56</b> so as to be rotatable relative to the coupling support shaft <b>56</b>. The development coupling <b>61</b> is substantially in a columnar shape extending in the left-right direction. The development coupling <b>61</b> is integrally provided with a large-diameter gear portion <b>65</b>, a small-diameter gear portion <b>66</b>, and a coupling portion <b>67</b>.

0089The large-diameter gear portion <b>65</b> is provided in the right end portion of the development coupling <b>61</b>. Gear teeth are formed on the entire periphery of the large-diameter gear portion <b>65</b>.

0090The small-diameter gear portion <b>66</b> is smaller in diameter than the large-diameter gear portion <b>65</b>, and is substantially in the shape of a column that shares the central axis with the large-diameter gear portion <b>65</b>. Gear teeth are formed on the entire periphery of the small-diameter gear portion <b>66</b>.

0091The coupling portion <b>67</b> is smaller in diameter than the small-diameter gear portion <b>66</b>, and is formed substantially in the shape of a column that shares the central axis with the large-diameter gear portion <b>65</b>. A coupling concave portion <b>68</b> is formed on the left-side surface of the coupling portion <b>67</b>. When the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>, a tip end of a main-casing-side coupling (not shown) provided in the main casing <b>2</b> is inserted into the coupling concave portion <b>68</b> so as not to be rotatable relative to the coupling concave portion <b>68</b>. A driving force is input to the coupling concave portion <b>68</b> through the main-casing-side coupling (not shown) from the main casing <b>2</b>.

0092The developing gear <b>62</b> is attached to the left end portion of the developing roller shaft <b>30</b> so as not to be rotatable relative to the developing roller shaft <b>30</b>. The developing gear <b>62</b> is engaged with the rear side of the large-diameter gear portion <b>65</b> in the development coupling <b>61</b>.

0093The supply gear <b>63</b> is attached to the left end portion of the supply roller shaft <b>29</b> so as not to be rotatable relative to the supply roller shaft <b>29</b>. The supply gear <b>63</b> is engaged with the rear lower side of the large-diameter gear portion <b>65</b> of the development coupling <b>61</b>.

0094The idle gear <b>64</b> is substantially in the shape of a column extending in the left-right direction. The idle gear <b>64</b> is supported on the idle gear support shaft <b>57</b> so as to be rotatable relative to the idle gear support shaft <b>57</b>. The idle gear <b>64</b> is integrally provided with a large-diameter portion <b>71</b> and a small-diameter portion <b>70</b>. The large-diameter portion <b>71</b> makes up the left half of the idle gear <b>64</b>, and the small-diameter portion <b>70</b> makes up the right half of the idle gear <b>64</b>.

0095The large-diameter portion <b>71</b> is substantially in the shape of a column extending in the left-right direction. The large-diameter portion <b>71</b> is engaged with the front lower side of the small-diameter gear portion <b>66</b> of the development coupling <b>61</b>.

0096The small-diameter portion <b>70</b> is substantially in the shape of a column that extends rightwardly from the right surface of the large-diameter portion <b>71</b> and that shares the central axis with the large-diameter portion <b>71</b>. The small-diameter portion <b>70</b> is disposed on the front lower side of the large-diameter gear portion <b>65</b> of the development coupling <b>61</b>, and is spaced apart from the large-diameter gear portion <b>65</b>.

0097The first agitator gear <b>72</b> is attached to the left end portion of the agitator shaft <b>76</b> so as not to be rotatable relative to the agitator shaft <b>76</b>. The first agitator gear <b>72</b> is engaged with the front upper side of the small-diameter portion <b>70</b> of the idle gear <b>64</b>.

0098As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, the second agitator gear <b>78</b> is provided on the right side of the right wall <b>36</b>R. The second agitator gear <b>78</b> is attached to the right end portion of the agitator shaft <b>76</b> so as not to be rotatable relative to the agitator shaft <b>76</b>. The number of teeth provided on the second agitator gear <b>78</b> is less than the number of teeth on the first agitator gear <b>72</b>.

0099(2-3) Driving-Side Gear Cover

0100As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>, the driving-side gear cover <b>53</b> is substantially in the shape of a tube; which extends in the left-right direction and whose left end portion is closed. The driving-side gear cover <b>53</b> is formed into such a size (front-back direction length and up-down direction length) that covers the development coupling <b>61</b>, the supply gear <b>63</b>, the idle gear <b>64</b>, and the first agitator gear <b>72</b> as a whole. The left side wall of the driving-side gear cover <b>53</b> is formed with a coupling exposure opening <b>73</b>.

0101The coupling exposure opening <b>73</b> is located substantially at the front-back directional center of the left wall constituting the driving-side gear cover <b>53</b>. The coupling exposure opening <b>73</b> penetrates the left wall of the driving-side gear cover <b>53</b>, and is substantially in a circular shape when viewed from the side so that the left surface of the coupling portion <b>67</b> is exposed outside through the coupling exposure opening <b>73</b>.

0102The driving-side gear cover <b>53</b> allows the left surface of the coupling portion <b>67</b> to be exposed via the coupling exposure opening <b>73</b>. The driving-side gear cover <b>53</b> is fixed with screws to the left wall <b>36</b>L so as to cover the development coupling <b>61</b> (except the left surface of the coupling portion <b>67</b>), the supply gear <b>63</b>, the idle gear <b>64</b>, and the first agitator gear <b>72</b>.

0103(3) Electric-power Supply Unit

0104As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3 and 5</figref>, the electric-power supplying unit <b>33</b> includes an electrode member <b>81</b>, a new-product detection gear <b>82</b>, and an electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b>.

0105(3-1) Electrode Member

0106As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5 and 6</figref>, the electrode member <b>81</b> is made of a conductive resin material (e.g., conductive polyacetal resin). The electrode member <b>81</b> has a main part <b>94</b> and an electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>.

0107The main part <b>94</b> is formed substantially in the shape of a rectangular plate when viewed from the side. The main part <b>94</b> is formed with a developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>84</b>, a supply roller shaft support portion <b>85</b>, a fitting projection insertion through-hole <b>86</b>, and a developing roller shaft collar <b>87</b>.

0108The developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>84</b> is located on the upper rear end portion of the main part <b>94</b>, and penetrates the main part <b>94</b>. The developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>84</b> is substantially in a circular shape when viewed from the side. The inner diameter of the developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>84</b> is substantially equal to or slightly larger than the right end portion of the developing roller shaft <b>30</b>. The right end portion of the developing roller shaft <b>30</b> is supported in the developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>84</b> so as to be rotatable relative to the developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>84</b>.

0109The supply roller shaft support portion <b>85</b> is located on the front lower side of the developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>84</b>. The supply roller shaft support portion <b>85</b> is substantially in the shape of a cylinder that extends leftwardly from the left surface of the main part <b>94</b>. The inner diameter of the supply roller shaft support portion <b>85</b> is substantially equal to or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the supply roller shaft <b>29</b>. The right end portion of the supply roller shaft <b>29</b> is supported in the supply roller shaft support portion <b>85</b> so as to be rotatable relative to the supply roller shaft support portion <b>85</b>.

0110The fitting projection insertion through-hole <b>86</b> is located on the front end portion of the main part <b>94</b> and penetrates the main part <b>94</b>. The fitting projection insertion through-hole <b>86</b> is substantially in a circular shape when viewed from the side. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>, a pair of concave portions <b>89</b> is formed on the front and lower side edges of the fitting projection insertion through-hole <b>86</b> so as to be dented radially outwardly from the fitting projection insertion through-hole <b>86</b>.

0111The developing roller shaft collar <b>87</b> is formed substantially in the shape of a cylinder that protrudes rightwardly from the peripheral edge of the developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>84</b>.

0112The electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is formed substantially in the shape of a cylinder that projects rightwardly from the periphery of the fitting projection insertion through-hole <b>86</b> in the main part <b>94</b>. The electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is hollow and open on both ends. The electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is formed with a pair of slits <b>90</b>. The slits <b>90</b> are each formed through the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> and communicates with the corresponding concave portion <b>89</b>. The slits <b>90</b> extend from the left edge of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> to the right side.

0113The electrode member <b>81</b> is fitted onto the right side of the right wall <b>36</b>R in such a way that the right end portion of the developing roller shaft <b>30</b> is inserted into the developing roller shaft support through-hole <b>84</b> and the developing roller shaft collar <b>87</b>, the right end portion of the supply roller shaft <b>29</b> is inserted into the supply roller shaft support portion <b>85</b>, and the fitting projection <b>45</b> is fitted into the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>.

0114The right edge of the fitting projection <b>45</b> is disposed on the left side of the right edge of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>. The electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is disposed on the right side of the rear end portion of the toner accommodating portion <b>79</b>.

0115As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> and the development coupling <b>61</b> are disposed relative to each other such that when the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> and the development coupling <b>61</b> are projected in the left-right direction, the upper and rear end portion of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> overlaps with the development coupling <b>61</b>.

0116(3-2) New-product Detection Gear

0117As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5 and 7</figref>, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is made of an insulating resin material (e.g., polyacetal resin), and is formed substantially in the shape of a cylinder whose central axis extends in the left-right direction. The new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is fitted onto the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> so as to be rotatable relative to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>.

0118For the following description of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>, the radial direction of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is defined as a radial direction, the circumferential direction of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> as a circumferential direction, and the rotation direction (or clockwise direction when viewed from the right side) of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> as a rotation direction.

0119As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7A</figref>, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is integrally provided with a tooth-missing gear <b>96</b>, a cylindrical portion <b>97</b>, and a detection end portion <b>95</b>.

0120The tooth-missing gear <b>96</b> is substantially in a circular plate shape that shares the central axis with the central axis of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>, and has a thickness in the left-right direction. Gear teeth are formed on the periphery of the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b> at its portion that makes a central angle of about 205 degrees. That is, a teeth portion <b>98</b> and a tooth-missing portion <b>99</b> are formed on the peripheral surface of the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b>, with gear teeth formed in the teeth portion <b>98</b> and no gear teeth in the tooth-missing portion <b>99</b>. The teeth portion <b>98</b> can engage with the rear side of the second agitator gear <b>78</b>. The tooth-missing portion <b>99</b> cannot engage with the second agitator gear <b>78</b>.

0121An electric-power receiving portion insertion through-hole <b>104</b> is formed through the radial-directional center of the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b>.

0122The electric-power receiving portion insertion through-hole <b>104</b> is substantially in a circular shape when viewed from the side and shares the central axis with the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>. The diameter of the electric-power receiving portion insertion through-hole <b>104</b> is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>.

0123The cylindrical portion <b>97</b> protrudes rightwardly from the outer periphery of the electric-power receiving portion insertion through-hole <b>104</b> of the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b>. The cylindrical portion <b>97</b> is substantially in a cylindrical shape and shares the central axis with the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>. A flange portion <b>100</b> projects radially outwardly from the right end portion of the cylindrical portion <b>97</b>.

0124The detection end portion <b>95</b> is provided on the right surface of the flange portion <b>100</b>. The detection end portion <b>95</b> has a pair of first covering portions <b>101</b> and a second covering portion <b>102</b>.

0125Each first covering portion <b>101</b> is substantially in the shape of a column having a rectangular cross-section and protrudes rightwardly from the right surface of the flange portion <b>100</b>. The covering portions <b>101</b> are disposed on the opposite sides of the central axis of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> in the radial direction.

0126As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7B</figref>, when being projected in the left-right direction, one of the first covering portions <b>101</b> is disposed radially inward of a rotation-direction downstream end of the teeth portion <b>98</b>, and the other first covering portion <b>101</b> is disposed radially inward of the rotation-directional center of the teeth portion <b>98</b>.

0127The second covering portion <b>102</b> spans between the right side edges of the pair of first covering portions <b>101</b>. The second covering portion <b>102</b> is substantially in a rhombic plate shape when viewed from the side. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5 and 7C</figref>, the second covering portion <b>102</b> is formed with a fitting portion <b>103</b>. The fitting portion <b>103</b> projects leftwardly from the left surface of the second covering portion <b>102</b>.

0128The fitting portion <b>103</b> is substantially in a cylindrical shape and shares the central axis with the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>. The outer diameter of the fitting portion <b>103</b> is substantially equal to or slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>.

0129The detection end portion <b>95</b> is opened radially outwardly at its part between the flange portion <b>100</b> and the second covering portion <b>102</b>. In other words, the detection end portion <b>95</b> is formed with an opening that extends in the rotation direction surrounding the fitting portion <b>103</b>, and the first covering portions <b>101</b> are provided midway in the opening in the rotation direction.

0130Each first covering portion <b>101</b> is chamfered at its radially outside edge on both of a pair of opposite sides in the rotating direction. More specifically, each first covering portion <b>101</b> is formed with a downstream side chamfered surface <b>105</b> and an upstream side chamfered surface <b>106</b> on its radially outside edge. The downstream side chamfered surface <b>105</b> is located on the downstream side of the first covering portion <b>101</b> in the rotating direction, while the upstream side chamfered surface <b>106</b> is located on the upstream side of the first covering portion <b>101</b> in the rotating direction. The upstream side chamfered surface <b>106</b> is continuous with the upstream side edge of the downstream side chamfered surface <b>105</b>. The downstream side chamfered surface <b>105</b> is gradually inclined radially outwardly in a direction toward the upstream side in the rotating direction. The upstream side chamfered surface <b>106</b> is gradually inclined radially inwardly in a direction toward the upstream side in the rotating direction.

0131The new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is rotatably fitted onto the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> in such a manner that the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is inserted into the electric-power receiving portion insertion through-hole <b>104</b> and the fitting portion <b>103</b> is inserted into the right end of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>.

0132As a result, the right end of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is covered with the first covering portions <b>101</b> from the radial-direction outside, and with the second covering portion <b>102</b> from the right side. The right end of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is exposed between the first covering portions <b>101</b>.

0133When the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is produced by a manufacturer, the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b> is oriented so that the teeth portion <b>98</b> engages, at its rotation-direction downstream side end, with the second agitator gear <b>78</b>.

0134The new-product detection gear <b>82</b> and the development coupling <b>61</b> are disposed relative to each other in the developing cartridge <b>25</b> so that when the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> and the development coupling <b>61</b> are projected in the left-right direction, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> overlaps, at is upper rear side end, with the development coupling <b>61</b>.

0135(3-3) Electric-power Supply-Side Gear Cover

0136As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, the electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b> is substantially in the shape of a tube, which extends in the left-right direction and whose right side end is closed. The electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b> is formed into such a size (front-back direction length and up-down direction length) that covers the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> and the second agitator gear <b>78</b> as a whole.

0137The electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b> includes a new-product detection gear exposure opening <b>111</b>, a front side bulging portion <b>112</b> and a rear side bulging portion <b>113</b>.

0138The new-product detection gear exposure opening <b>111</b> is located substantially at the front-back directional center in a right wall constituting the electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b>. The new-product detection gear exposure opening <b>111</b> penetrates the right wall of the electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b>. The new-product detection gear exposure opening <b>111</b> is substantially in a circular shape when viewed from the side so that the detection end portion <b>95</b> of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is exposed outside through the new-product detection gear exposure opening <b>111</b>.

0139The front side bulging portion <b>112</b> is formed substantially in the shape of a rectangle when viewed from the side, and projects from the front side peripheral edge of the new-product detection gear exposure opening <b>111</b> to the right side.

0140The rear side bulging portion <b>113</b> is formed substantially in the shape of a rectangle when viewed from the side, and projects from the rear side peripheral edge of the new-product detection gear exposure opening <b>111</b> to the right side.

0141The electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b> is fixed with screws to the right wall <b>36</b>R in such a way that the detection end portion <b>95</b> of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is exposed via the new-product detection gear exposure opening <b>111</b>, and the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b> and cylindrical portion <b>97</b> of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> and the second agitator gear <b>78</b> are covered with the electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b>.

0142The new-product detection gear <b>82</b> and the electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b> are disposed relative to each other so that when the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> and the electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b> are projected in the up-down direction, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>, the right surface of the second covering portion <b>102</b> is arranged on the same plane with the right surfaces of the front side bulging portion <b>112</b> and the rear side bulging portion <b>113</b>. That is, when being projected in the front-back direction, the right surface of the second covering portion <b>102</b> overlaps with the right surfaces of the front side bulging portion <b>112</b> and rear side bulging portion <b>113</b>.

0143The right surfaces of the front side bulging portion <b>112</b> and rear side bulging portion <b>113</b> are disposed on the right side of the right side edge of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>.

01443. Main Casing

0145As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>, a main-casing-side electrode unit <b>116</b> is provided in the main casing <b>2</b> to supply developing bias to the developing cartridge <b>25</b>.

0146The main-casing-side electrode unit <b>116</b> includes: a fixed electrode <b>118</b>, a holder member <b>117</b>, and a swing electrode <b>119</b>. The swing electrode <b>119</b> is held by the holder member <b>117</b>.

0147The fixed electrode <b>118</b> is a coil spring formed of metal. The fixed electrode <b>118</b> is fixed, at its one end, to the main casing <b>2</b> at a position that is near to the right side of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> when the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>. The other end of the fixed electrode <b>118</b> serves as a free end portion <b>121</b>.

0148The holder member <b>117</b> is made of an insulating resin material. The holder member <b>117</b> is substantially in a U-shaped bent rod when viewed from the side so that the U-shape extends in the front-back direction, with its opening facing upwardly. A cylindrical portion <b>122</b> is provided on the front end portion of the holder member <b>117</b>. The cylindrical portion <b>122</b> is substantially in a cylindrical shape that extends in the left-right direction. Although not shown, a swing shaft is provided within the main casing <b>2</b>. The cylindrical portion <b>122</b> is fitted onto the swing shaft (not shown) so as to be rotatable relative to the swing shaft. In such a manner, the holder member <b>117</b> is rotatably supported by the main casing <b>2</b>.

0149The swing electrode <b>119</b> is a coil spring wound around the cylindrical portion <b>122</b>. The swing electrode <b>119</b> is made of a metal. The swing electrode <b>119</b> has a fixed portion <b>123</b> at its one end. The fixed portion <b>123</b> is fixed to the main casing <b>2</b> at a position near to the right side of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> when the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>. The swing electrode <b>119</b> has an electrode portion <b>124</b> at its other end. The electrode portion <b>124</b> is fixed to the holder member <b>117</b>.

0150The electrode portion <b>124</b> has a development-side contact <b>125</b> and a main-casing-side contact <b>126</b>. The development-side contact <b>125</b> can contact the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> of the developing cartridge <b>25</b>. The main-casing-side contact <b>126</b> can contact the free end portion <b>121</b> of the fixed electrode <b>118</b>.

0151The development-side contact <b>125</b> is supported on the front lower end portion of the holder member <b>117</b>, and is exposed to the front lower side.

0152The main-casing-side contact <b>126</b> is supported on the rear end portion of the holder member <b>117</b>, and is exposed to the right side.

0153As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>, due to the elasticity of the swing electrode <b>119</b>, the swing electrode <b>119</b> is normally held at a lower side disconnection position where the main-casing-side contact <b>126</b> is separate away from the free end portion <b>121</b> of the fixed electrode <b>118</b> and is positioned below the free end portion <b>121</b>.

0154As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>, as the swing electrode <b>119</b> is pushed from the front side against the elastic force of the swing electrode <b>119</b>, the swing electrode <b>119</b> swings in the counterclockwise direction when viewed from the right side. As a result, the main-casing-side contact <b>126</b> is placed at a connection position where the main-casing-side contact <b>126</b> is in contact with the free end portion <b>121</b> of the fixed electrode <b>118</b>.

0155As the swing electrode <b>119</b> is further pushed from the front side against the elastic force of the swing electrode <b>119</b>, the swing electrode <b>119</b> swings further in the counterclockwise direction when viewed from the right side. As a result, the main-casing-side contact <b>126</b> is placed at an upper side disconnection position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>) where the main-casing-side contact <b>126</b> is separate away from the free end portion <b>121</b> of the fixed electrode <b>118</b> and is positioned above the free end portion <b>121</b>.

0156As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>, a power supply <b>132</b>, a bias detection unit <b>133</b>, and a CPU <b>131</b> are provided in the main casing <b>2</b>.

0157The power supply <b>132</b> is electrically connected to the fixed portion <b>123</b> of the swing electrode <b>119</b>. The power supply <b>132</b> supplies developing bias to the swing electrode <b>119</b>.

0158The bias detection unit <b>133</b> is electrically connected to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>. The bias detection unit <b>133</b> is for detecting a developing bias that is supplied from the power supply <b>132</b> to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> via the swing electrode <b>119</b>. In other words, the bias detection unit <b>133</b> detects whether or not a developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>.

0159The CPU <b>131</b> is electrically connected to the power supply <b>132</b> and the bias detection unit <b>133</b>. The CPU <b>131</b> determines the state of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> based on the results of detection by the bias detection unit <b>133</b>. When the bias detection unit <b>133</b> detects supply of developing bias from the power supply <b>132</b> to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the swing electrode <b>119</b> is placed at the connection position. When the bias detection unit <b>133</b> detects no supply of developing bias from the power supply <b>132</b> to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the swing electrode <b>119</b> is placed at the lower- or upper-side disconnection position.

01604. Operation of Detecting New Developing Cartridge

0161With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 11 to 18</figref>, next will be described how to detect a new developing cartridge <b>25</b>.

0162When the process cartridge <b>11</b> is not mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>, the swing electrode <b>119</b> is at the lower side disconnection position as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>.

0163No developing cartridge <b>25</b> is mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>. Developing bias is not supplied from the power supply <b>132</b> to the developing cartridge <b>25</b> or to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>. The bias detection unit <b>133</b> does not detect supply of developing bias from the power supply <b>132</b> to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>. The CPU <b>131</b> determines that no developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>.

0164If the bias detection unit <b>133</b> does not detect supply of developing bias from the power supply <b>132</b> to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> continuously for a predetermined period of time or longer, then the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is not mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>.

0165After the top cover <b>6</b> of the main casing <b>2</b> is opened and a process cartridge <b>11</b>, in which a new (unused) developing cartridge <b>25</b> is mounted, is inserted into the main casing <b>2</b> from the front upper side, the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> comes in contact with the holder member <b>117</b> from the front upper side.

0166As the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is inserted into the main casing <b>2</b> together with the process cartridge <b>11</b>, the holder member <b>117</b> is pushed by the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>. As a result, the electrode portion <b>124</b> of the swing electrode <b>119</b> swings counterclockwise when viewed from the right side together with the holder member <b>117</b>.

0167Then, when the operation of mounting the developing cartridge <b>25</b> in the main casing <b>2</b> is completed, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 12 and 14</figref>, the swing electrode <b>119</b> is placed at the connection position where the main-casing-side contact <b>126</b> is in contact with the free end portion <b>121</b> of the fixed electrode <b>118</b>. Moreover, the development-side contact <b>125</b> of the swing electrode <b>119</b> comes in contact with the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> from the rear side through the space between the first covering portions <b>101</b>. At this time, one of the first covering portions <b>101</b> is positioned on the front upper side of the holder member <b>117</b> and swing electrode <b>119</b>.

0168As a result, the developing bias that is supplied from the power supply <b>132</b> to the swing electrode <b>119</b> is supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> via the development-side contact <b>125</b>.

0169The developing bias supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is applied to the developing roller shaft <b>30</b> via the electrode member <b>81</b>.

0170The developing bias is supplied also to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> from the main-casing-side contact <b>126</b> via the free end portion <b>121</b> of the fixed electrode <b>118</b>, and is finally detected by the bias detection unit <b>133</b>.

0171As a result, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>.

0172When the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>, the tip of the main-casing-side coupling (not shown) in the main casing <b>2</b> is inserted into the coupling concave portion <b>68</b> of the development coupling <b>61</b> so as not to be rotatable relative to the coupling concave portion <b>68</b>. Then, a driving force is input from the main casing <b>2</b> to the development coupling <b>61</b> via the main-casing-side coupling (not shown), starting a warm-up operation.

0173As a result, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>, the driving force is transmitted from the development coupling <b>61</b> to the agitator shaft <b>76</b> via the idle gear <b>64</b> and the first agitator gear <b>72</b>, and therefore rotates the agitator <b>80</b>.

0174As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, as the agitator <b>80</b> rotates, the driving force is transmitted to the teeth portion <b>98</b> of the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b> via the agitator shaft <b>76</b> and the second agitator gear <b>78</b>, rotating the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> in the clockwise direction when viewed from the right side.

0175Accordingly, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>, the first covering portion <b>101</b> of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> comes in contact with the electrode portion <b>124</b> of the swing electrode <b>119</b> from the front side, pushing the electrode portion <b>124</b> toward the rear side. As a result, against the elastic force of the swing electrode <b>119</b>, the holder member <b>117</b> and the swing electrode <b>119</b> run up on the first covering portion <b>101</b> along the downstream side chamfered surface <b>105</b>, retract from the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> to the rear side, and are positioned at the upper side disconnection position.

0176As a result, the development-side contact <b>125</b> of the swing electrode <b>119</b> is separated away from the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> toward the rear side, and the swing electrode <b>119</b> is electrically disconnected from the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>. Moreover, the main-casing-side contact <b>126</b> of the swing electrode <b>119</b> is separated away from the free end portion <b>121</b> of the fixed electrode <b>118</b> toward the upper side, and the swing electrode <b>119</b> is electrically disconnected from the fixed electrode <b>118</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>). It is noted that if the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is made of a conductive material, the swing electrode <b>119</b> is not electrically disconnected from the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>. However, the swing electrode <b>119</b> is electrically disconnected from the fixed electrode <b>118</b>.

0177At this time, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that no developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>.

0178As the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> further rotates in the clockwise direction when viewed from the right side, the first covering portion <b>101</b> passes between the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> and the holder member <b>117</b> from the front upper side to the rear lower side.

0179As a result, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref>, the holder member <b>117</b> and the swing electrode <b>119</b> swing back toward the front side due to the elastic force of the swing electrode <b>119</b>, while running down from the first covering portion <b>101</b> along the upstream side chamfered surface <b>106</b>, and are again placed at the connection position.

0180As a result, the development-side contact <b>125</b> of the swing electrode <b>119</b> comes in contact with the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> from the rear side, and the swing electrode <b>119</b> is electrically connected to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>. Moreover, the main-casing-side contact <b>126</b> comes in contact with the free end portion <b>121</b> of the fixed electrode <b>118</b>, and the swing electrode <b>119</b> is electrically connected to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>). It is noted that if the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is made of a conductive material, the swing electrode <b>119</b> remains electrically connected to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>.

0181Thus, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>. That is, after the warm-up operation has started, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>, then the supply of the developing bias to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> is stopped temporarily, and then the developing bias is again supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>.

0182That is, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> rotates to move from a first position to a second position and then to a third position. At the first position, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> causes the swing electrode <b>119</b> to be placed at the connection position and allows electric power to be supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> via the space between the first covering portions <b>101</b>. At the second position, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> causes the swing electrode <b>119</b> to be placed at the upper side disconnection position and blocks off the supply of electric power to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> by the first covering portion <b>101</b>. At the third position, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> causes the swing electrode <b>119</b> to be placed at the connection position again and allows electric power to be supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> via the space between the first covering portions <b>101</b>.

0183As the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> further rotates, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 17 and 18</figref>, similarly to the first covering portion <b>101</b> described above, the other first covering portion <b>101</b> moves the swing electrode <b>119</b> from the connection position to the upper side disconnection position, and then back to the connection position.

0184As the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> further rotates, the tooth-missing portion <b>99</b> faces the second agitator gear <b>78</b>, and the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is disengaged from the second agitator gear <b>78</b>. As a result, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> stops rotating. Then, the warm-up operation comes to an end.

0185So, the CPU <b>131</b> again determines that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>, then the supply of the developing bias to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> is temporarily stopped, and then the developing bias is again supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>.

0186The CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is a new (unused) product if the CPU <b>131</b> determines, after the warm-up operation has started, that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>, then the supply of the developing bias to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> temporarily stops, and then the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> again.

0187The CPU <b>131</b> associates the number of times that the supply of developing bias to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> stops temporarily during the warm-up process, with information on the maximum number of images that can be formed with the developing cartridge <b>25</b>. More specifically, for example, the CPU <b>131</b> associates the number with the information in the following manner: If the number of times that the supply of developing bias stops temporarily is two, the maximum number of images that can be formed is 6,000. If the number of times that the supply of developing bias stops temporarily is one, the maximum number of images that can be formed is 3,000.

0188The CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing cartridge <b>25</b> can form 6,000 images if the CPU <b>131</b> detects twice such a change in the supply of the developing bias from ON to OFF and then back to ON after the warm-up process has started.

0189So, when the new developing cartridge <b>25</b> is mounted, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is new, and that the maximum number of images that can be formed with the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is 6,000. It is noted that an operation panel or the like (not shown) is provided on the main casing <b>2</b>. Notification is displayed on the operation panel or the like to request a user to replace the developing cartridge <b>25</b> with a new one, immediately before the number of images that have been actually formed with the developing cartridge <b>25</b> exceeds 6,000.

0190If the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> continuously for the predetermined period of time or more, then the CPU <b>131</b> determines that a developing cartridge <b>25</b> is being mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>.

0191As described above, when a new developing cartridge <b>25</b> is mounted, a new-product detection process is executed to determine whether the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is being mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>. Now assume that a new developing cartridge <b>25</b> is mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>, is then temporarily detached from the main casing <b>2</b> to solve a paper jam, for example, and is then mounted again in the main casing <b>2</b>. When the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is thus mounted again in the main casing <b>2</b>, however, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> does not rotate, but is kept at a position where the tooth-missing portion <b>99</b> of the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b> faces the second agitator gear <b>78</b>. Therefore, even when the warm-up operation is executed at the time when the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is mounted again, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> does not rotate, and therefore the new-production detection process is not executed. At this time, the holder member <b>117</b> and the swing electrode <b>119</b> are positioned at the connection position. So, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing bias is constantly supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>.

0192Therefore, the CPU <b>131</b> does not erroneously determine that the developing cartridge <b>25</b> that is mounted again (or used developing cartridge <b>25</b>) is a new one. The CPU <b>131</b> continues comparing, with the maximum number of images that can be formed with the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, the number of images that have been actually formed with the developing cartridge <b>25</b> since the developing cartridge <b>25</b> was newly mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>. Moreover, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is being mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>.

01935. Operations

0194(1) In the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3 and 4</figref>, the development coupling <b>61</b> is disposed on the left side of the left wall <b>36</b>L. The new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is disposed on the right side of the right wall <b>36</b>R. A driving force input to the development coupling <b>61</b> is transmitted to the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> via the agitator <b>80</b> that is disposed between the left wall <b>36</b>L and the right wall <b>36</b>R.

0195Thus, the development coupling <b>61</b> and the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> are disposed on different side walls (or on the left wall <b>36</b>L and the right wall <b>36</b>R). Thus, the area of the left wall <b>36</b>L and the area of the right wall <b>36</b>R are made small. As a result, the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is made small in size.

0196More specifically, if the development coupling <b>61</b> and the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> are disposed on the same side wall (the left wall <b>36</b>L or right wall <b>36</b>R), the side wall <b>36</b> needs to have an area large enough to be mounted with both of the development coupling <b>61</b> and the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>. Contrarily, according to the present embodiment, the area of the left wall <b>36</b>L and right wall <b>36</b>R is made small because each side wall <b>36</b> is mounted with only one of the development coupling <b>61</b> and the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>.

0197(2) In the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> and the development coupling <b>61</b> are disposed relative to each other so that as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, when the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> and the development coupling <b>61</b> are projected in the left-right direction, the rear upper side end portion of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> overlaps with the development coupling <b>61</b>.

0198Therefore, when projected in the left-right direction, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> and the development coupling <b>61</b> are disposed substantially at the same location. Thus, the developing cartridge <b>25</b> can be made small in size.

0199(3) As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3 and 4</figref>, the use of the agitator <b>80</b> enables a driving force to be transmitted from the development coupling <b>61</b> to the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>, thereby reducing the number of components.

0200(4) As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is supported by the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> so as to be rotatable relative to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>.

0201Therefore, compared with the case where the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> and the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> are separately disposed, an efficient arrangement of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is possible.

0202(5) In the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> and the development coupling <b>61</b> are disposed relative to each other so that as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, when the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> and the development coupling <b>61</b> are projected in the left-right direction, the rear upper side end portion of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> overlaps with the development coupling <b>61</b>.

0203Therefore, when projected in the front-back and up-down directions, the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> and the development coupling <b>61</b> are disposed substantially at the same location. Thus, the developing cartridge <b>25</b> can be made small in size.

0204(6) In the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7A-7C</figref>, the first covering portions <b>101</b> are provided on the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> at its pair of radial-direction opposite sides. The new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is formed with the opening at a location between the flange portion <b>100</b> and the second covering portion <b>102</b>. The opening extends in the rotation direction (circumferential direction) of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>. The first covering portions <b>101</b> are arranged in the midway in the opening so as to be spaced apart from each other in the rotating direction. The electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is exposed in the space between the two adjacent first covering portions <b>101</b>.

0205Therefore, the rotation of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> switches the supply of electric power from the main casing <b>2</b> to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> between the ON and OFF states.

0206(7) In the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7A</figref>, the detected end portion <b>95</b> includes the first covering portions <b>101</b> and the second covering portion <b>102</b>. The first covering portions <b>101</b> cover the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> from the radial-direction outer side, and the second covering portion <b>102</b> covers the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> from the right side.

0207Therefore, the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is protected by the detected end portion <b>95</b> from both of the radial-direction outside and the right side.

0208(8) In the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7B and 7C</figref>, the detected end portion <b>95</b> has the pair of first covering portions <b>101</b> on the pair of radial-direction opposite sides in the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>, respectively.

0209Therefore, the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is protected from both of the radial-direction opposite sides.

0210(9) According to the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, the number of the first covering portions <b>101</b> corresponds to the maximum number of images that can be formed with the developing cartridge <b>25</b>.

0211Therefore, on the basis of the number of the first covering portions <b>101</b>, information on the maximum number of images that can be formed with the developing cartridge <b>25</b> can be easily and reliably determined.

0212As a result, even though the amount of toner stored in the developing cartridge <b>25</b> differs according to the maximum number of images that can be formed with the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, the duration of life of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> can be correctly determined, and the developing cartridge <b>25</b> can be properly replaced.

0213(10) As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7C</figref>, each first covering portion <b>101</b> is formed with the downstream side chamfered surface <b>105</b> and upstream side chamfered surface <b>106</b> on its radially outside edge. The downstream side chamfered surface <b>105</b> is located on the downstream side of the first covering portion <b>101</b> in the rotating direction, while the upstream side chamfered surface <b>106</b> is located on the upstream side of the first covering portion <b>101</b> in the rotating direction. The upstream side chamfered surface <b>106</b> is continuous with the upstream side edge of the downstream side chamfered surface <b>105</b>. The downstream side chamfered surface <b>105</b> is gradually inclined radially outwardly in a direction toward the upstream side in the rotating direction. The upstream side chamfered surface <b>106</b> is gradually inclined radially inwardly in a direction toward the upstream side in the rotating direction.

0214Thus, as the first covering portion <b>101</b> passes between the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> and the holder member <b>117</b>, the holder member <b>117</b> and the swing electrode <b>119</b> run up on the first covering portion <b>101</b> along the downstream side chamfered surface <b>105</b>, and are placed at the upper side disconnection position. Then, the holder member <b>117</b> and the swing electrode <b>119</b> go down the first covering portion <b>101</b> along the upstream side chamfered surface <b>106</b>, and are placed at the connection position again.

0215As a result, the first covering portion <b>101</b> can smoothly pass between the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> and the holder member <b>117</b>.

0216(11) In the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5 and 14</figref>, the second covering portion <b>102</b> includes the fitting portion <b>103</b> that is fitted into the right end portion of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>.

0217Therefore, the fitting portion <b>103</b> precisely positions the right end portion of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> relative to the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>.

0218(12) In the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5 and 14</figref>, the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is formed in a cylindrical tubular shape, and the fitting portion <b>103</b> is fitted into the inside of the right end portion of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> so that the outer peripheral surface of the fitting portion <b>103</b> faces the inner peripheral surface of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>.

0219Therefore, the fitting portion <b>103</b> reinforces the right end portion of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>.

0220(13) As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, the fitting projection <b>45</b> is provided on the right wall <b>36</b>R of the cartridge frame <b>31</b>. The fitting projection <b>45</b> is fitted into the inside of the tubular-shaped electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>.

0221The fitting projection <b>45</b> reinforces the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>.

0222(14) As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 14</figref>, <b>15</b> and <b>16</b>, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> moves from the first position (See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref>) to the second position (See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>) and then to the third position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref>). When the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is at the first position, electric power is supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> via the space between the first covering portions <b>101</b>. When the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is at the second position, the input of electric power to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is blocked off by the first covering portion <b>101</b>. When the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is at the third position, electric power is supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> via the space between the first covering portions <b>101</b>.

0223Therefore, the CPU <b>131</b> detects that electric power is supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> before and after input of the electric power to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is blocked. This ensures that the CPU <b>131</b> recognizes that input of electric power to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is blocked by the first covering portion <b>101</b>.

0224(15) As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7A and 7B</figref>, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> includes the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b> having the teeth portion <b>98</b> and the tooth-missing portion <b>99</b>. A driving force is transmitted to the teeth portion <b>98</b>, but not to the tooth-missing portion <b>99</b>.

0225This ensures that the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> can rotate by a predetermined amount from the start to the end of the warming-up process.

0226(16) As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, the electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b> has the new-product detection gear exposure opening <b>111</b> that allows the detected end portion <b>95</b> of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> to be exposed therethrough. The tooth-missing gear <b>96</b> and cylindrical portion <b>97</b> of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> and the second agitator gear <b>78</b> are covered with the electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b>.

0227Thus, the electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b> protects the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b> and the second agitator gear <b>78</b>, and ensures that the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b> and the second agitator gear <b>78</b> engage with each other. Moreover, the electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b> ensures that electric power is supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> via the new-product detection gear exposure opening <b>111</b>.

0228(17) As apparent from <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>, the electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b> and the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> are disposed relative to each other such that when the electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b> and the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> are projected in the front-back direction of the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, the right surface of the electric-power supply-side gear cover <b>83</b> overlaps with the right surface of the second covering portion <b>102</b> of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>.

0229Therefore, the developing cartridge <b>25</b> can be smoothly mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>.

0230(18) In the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, the total number of teeth on the first agitator gear <b>72</b> is greater than the total number of teeth on the second agitator gear <b>78</b>.

0231Therefore, the rotation speed of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> can be reduced relative to the rotation speed of the agitator <b>80</b>.

0232This provides a period of time long enough to detect changes in the supply of electric power from the main casing <b>2</b> to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> between ON and OFF states, thereby ensuring that the detection is executed precisely.

02336. Second Embodiment

0234With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 19 to 22</figref>, a second embodiment of the cartridge will be described. Incidentally, according to the second embodiment, the same or similar members as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

0235According to the first embodiment, the detection end portion <b>95</b> has the two first covering portions <b>101</b>, and the first covering portions <b>101</b> are provided on the radial-direction opposite sides of the central axis of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>. The number of the first covering portions <b>101</b> corresponds to the maximum number of images that can be formed with the developing cartridge <b>25</b>.

0236However, according to the second embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref>, a detection end portion <b>136</b> is provided in place of the detection end portion <b>95</b>. The detection end portion <b>136</b> has a peripheral wall <b>137</b>, instead of the first covering portions <b>101</b>. The peripheral wall <b>137</b> is formed in the shape of a partial cylinder whose cross-section has a fan or sector shape with its central angle being about 120 degrees. In other words, the peripheral wall <b>137</b> extends around the central axis of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> by 120 degrees so that the peripheral wall <b>137</b> continuously covers a half or more part of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> in the rotating direction. The second covering portion <b>102</b> in the detection end portion <b>136</b> is in a sector shape and is connected to the right side edge of the peripheral wall <b>137</b>. In other words, similarly to the detection end portion <b>95</b>, the detection end portion <b>136</b> is opened radially outwardly at its part between the flange portion <b>100</b> and the second covering portion <b>102</b>. That is, the detection end portion <b>136</b> is formed with an opening that extends in the rotating direction surrounding the fitting portion <b>103</b>. The peripheral wall <b>137</b> is located in the opening, and occupies the opening by a length equivalent to a half or more of the circumferential length of the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>.

0237As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20</figref>, when the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is completely mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>, the swing electrode <b>119</b> is disposed at the connection position, and the main-casing-side contact <b>126</b> is in contact with the free end portion <b>121</b> of the fixed electrode <b>118</b>. The development-side contact <b>125</b> of the swing electrode <b>119</b> is in contact with the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> from the rear side via the portion where the peripheral wall <b>137</b> is not provided.

0238As a result, the developing bias from the power supply <b>132</b> is supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> via the swing electrode <b>119</b>, and is then applied to the developing roller shaft <b>30</b>.

0239The CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>.

0240Then, the warm-up operation of the printer <b>1</b> starts. As the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> rotates in the clockwise direction when viewed from the right side, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref>, a rotation-direction downstream side edge of the peripheral wall <b>137</b> comes in contact with the holder member <b>117</b> from the front side, pushing the holder member <b>117</b> toward the rear side. As a result, the holder member <b>117</b> and the swing electrode <b>119</b> run up on the peripheral wall <b>137</b> against the elastic force of the swing electrode <b>119</b>, retract from the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> to the rear side, and are positioned at the upper side disconnection position.

0241Accordingly, the development-side contact <b>125</b> is separated away from the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> to the rear side, and the swing electrode <b>119</b> is electrically disconnected from the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> as a result. Moreover, the main-casing-side contact <b>126</b> is separated away from the free end portion <b>121</b> of the fixed electrode <b>118</b> to the upper side, and the swing electrode <b>119</b> is electrically disconnected from the fixed electrode <b>118</b> as a result.

0242The CPU <b>131</b> determines that no developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>.

0243As the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> further rotates in the clockwise direction when viewed from the right side, the peripheral wall <b>137</b> of the detection end portion <b>136</b> passes between the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> and the holder member <b>117</b> from the front upper side to the rear lower side.

0244At this time, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that no developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> for a period of time corresponding to the circumferential-direction length of the peripheral wall <b>137</b>.

0245Thereafter, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref>, the holder member <b>117</b> and the swing electrode <b>119</b> swing back to the front side due to the elastic force of the swing electrode <b>119</b> to come down from the peripheral wall <b>137</b>, and are placed at the connection position again.

0246As a result, the development-side contact <b>125</b> of the swing electrode <b>119</b> comes in contact with the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> from the rear side, and the swing electrode <b>119</b> is electrically connected to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>. Moreover, the main-casing-side contact <b>126</b> comes in contact with the free end portion <b>121</b> of the fixed electrode <b>118</b>, and the swing electrode <b>119</b> is electrically connected to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>.

0247Thus, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>. That is, after the warm-up operation has started, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>, then the supply of the developing bias to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> is stopped temporarily, and then the developing bias is again supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>.

0248The CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is a new (unused) product if the CPU <b>131</b> determines, after the warm-up operation has started, that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b>, then the supply of the developing bias to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> temporarily stops, and then the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> again.

0249The CPU <b>131</b> associates a length of time, during which the supply of developing bias to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> stops temporarily, with information on the maximum number of images that can be formed with the developing cartridge <b>25</b>. More specifically, for example, the CPU <b>131</b> associates the length of time with the information in the following manner: If the length of time that the supply of developing bias stops temporarily is longer than a predetermined threshold, the maximum number of images that can be formed is 6,000. If the length of time that the supply of developing bias stops temporarily is shorter than or equal to the predetermined threshold, the maximum number of images that can be formed is 3,000.

0250The CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing cartridge <b>25</b> can form 6,000 images if the CPU <b>131</b> detects such a change in the supply of the developing bias from ON to OFF and then back to ON after the warm-up process has started and the length of time, during which the supply of the developing bias is OFF, is longer than the threshold.

0251If the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>118</b> continuously for the predetermined period of time or more, then the CPU <b>131</b> determines that a developing cartridge <b>25</b> is being mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>.

0252According to the second embodiment, a half or more of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> in the rotation direction is continuously covered with the peripheral wall <b>137</b>.

0253Therefore, a half or more of the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> in the rotation direction is continuously protected.

0254According to the second embodiment, the rotation-direction length of the peripheral wall <b>137</b> corresponds to the maximum number of images that can be formed with the developing cartridge <b>25</b>.

0255Therefore, on the basis of the rotation-direction length of the peripheral wall <b>137</b>, the maximum number of images that can be formed with the developing cartridge <b>25</b> can be easily and reliably determined.

0256As a result, even though the amount of toner stored in the developing cartridge <b>25</b> differs according to the maximum number of images that can be formed by the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, the duration of life of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> can be correctly determined, and the developing cartridge <b>25</b> can be properly replaced.

0257According to the second embodiment, the same operations as those of the first embodiment described above can be attained.

02587. Third Embodiment

0259With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 23 and 24</figref>, a third embodiment of the cartridge will be described. According to the third embodiment, the same or similar components as those in the first embodiment are represented by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

0260According to the first embodiment, a driving force input to the development coupling <b>61</b> is transmitted to the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> via the agitator shaft <b>76</b>. However, according to the third embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 23 and 24</figref>, a driving force input to the development coupling <b>61</b> is transmitted to the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> via the developing roller <b>16</b>. The developing roller <b>16</b> has the developing roller shaft <b>30</b>. The developing roller <b>16</b> rotates about a central axis A<b>3</b> of the developing roller shaft <b>30</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23</figref>).

0261According to the third embodiment, the second agitator gear <b>78</b> is not provided in the right end portion of the agitator shaft <b>76</b>. Moreover, on the electrode member <b>81</b>, the developing roller shaft collar <b>87</b> is not provided. The right end portion of the developing roller shaft <b>30</b> projects from the right surface of the electrode member <b>81</b> to the right side.

0262A first idle gear <b>141</b> is supported on the right end portion of the developing roller shaft <b>30</b> so as not to be rotatable relative to the developing roller shaft <b>30</b>. A second idle gear <b>142</b> is supported on the right surface of the electrode member <b>81</b> so as to be rotatable relative to the electrode member <b>81</b>. The second idle gear <b>142</b> engages with the front upper side of the first idle gear <b>141</b>, and also with the rear upper side of the teeth portion <b>98</b> of the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b>.

0263After the warm-up process starts, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 24</figref>, a driving force is transmitted from the development coupling <b>61</b> to the developing gear <b>62</b>. As a result, the developing roller <b>16</b> rotates.

0264As the developing roller <b>16</b> rotates, the first idle gear <b>141</b> rotates together with the developing roller shaft <b>30</b>. The driving force is transmitted from the first idle gear <b>141</b> to the teeth portion <b>98</b> of the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b> via the second idle gear <b>142</b>. As a result, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> rotates in the clockwise direction when viewed from the right side.

0265According to the third embodiment, the use of the developing roller <b>16</b> enables the driving force to be transmitted from the development coupling <b>61</b> to the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>, resulting in a decrease in the number of components.

0266According to the third embodiment, the same operations as those of the first embodiment described above can be attained.

02678. Fourth Embodiment

0268With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 25 and 26</figref>, a fourth embodiment of the cartridge will be described. According to the fourth embodiment, the same or similar components as those in the first embodiment are represented by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

0269According to the first embodiment, a driving force input to development coupling <b>61</b> is transmitted to the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> via the agitator shaft <b>76</b>. According to the fourth embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 25 and 26</figref>, a driving force input to development coupling <b>61</b> is transmitted to the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> via the supply roller <b>27</b>. The supply roller <b>27</b> has the supply roller shaft <b>29</b>. The supply roller <b>27</b> rotates around a central axis A<b>4</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 25</figref>) of the supply roller shaft <b>29</b>.

0270According to the fourth embodiment, the second agitator gear <b>78</b> is not provided on the right end portion of the agitator shaft <b>76</b>. The right end portion of the supply roller shaft <b>29</b> projects from the right surface of the electrode member <b>81</b> to the right side through the main part <b>94</b> of the electrode member <b>81</b>.

0271An idle gear <b>151</b> is supported on the right end portion of the supply roller shaft <b>29</b> so as not to be rotatable relative to the supply roller shaft <b>29</b>. The idle gear <b>151</b> engages with the rear lower side of the teeth portion <b>98</b> of the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b>.

0272After the warm-up operation starts, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 26</figref>, a driving force is transmitted from the development coupling <b>61</b> to the supply gear <b>63</b>. As a result, the supply roller <b>27</b> rotates.

0273As the supply roller <b>27</b> rotates, the supply roller shaft <b>29</b> rotates together with the idle gear <b>151</b>. The driving force is transmitted from the idle gear <b>151</b> to the teeth portion <b>98</b> of the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b>. As a result, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> rotates in the clockwise direction when viewed from the right side.

0274According to the fourth embodiment, the use of the supply roller <b>27</b> enables the driving force to be transmitted from the development coupling <b>61</b> to the new-product detection gear <b>82</b>, resulting in a decrease in the number of components.

0275According to the fourth embodiment, the same operations as those of the first embodiment described above can be attained.

02769. Fifth Embodiment

0277With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 27</figref>, a fifth embodiment of the cartridge will be described. According to the fifth embodiment, the same or similar components as those in the fourth embodiment described above are represented by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

0278According to the above-described fourth embodiment, the idle gear <b>151</b> is provided on the right end portion of the supply roller shaft <b>29</b>. The idle gear <b>151</b> engages with the rear lower side of the teeth portion <b>98</b> in the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b>.

0279However, according to the fifth embodiment, instead of the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b>, a first resistance providing member <b>146</b> is provided on the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 27</figref>. The first resistance providing member <b>146</b> is substantially in the shape of a circular plate. At least an outer peripheral part of the first resistance providing member <b>146</b> is made of a material having a relatively large friction coefficient, such as rubber. Instead of the idle gear <b>151</b>, a second resistance providing member <b>147</b> is provided on the right end portion of the supply roller shaft <b>29</b> so that the second resistance providing member <b>147</b> is in contact with the rear side of the first resistance providing member <b>146</b>. The second resistance providing member <b>147</b> is substantially in the shape of a circular plate. At least an outer peripheral part of the second resistance providing member <b>147</b> is made of a material having a relatively large friction coefficient, such as rubber.

0280After the warm-up process starts, the supply roller <b>27</b> rotates in a similar way to the fourth embodiment described above.

0281As the supply roller <b>27</b> rotates, the second resistance providing member <b>147</b> rotates together with the supply roller shaft <b>29</b>. Due to the frictional force between the second resistance providing member <b>147</b> and the first resistance providing member <b>146</b>, the driving force is transmitted from the second resistance providing member <b>147</b> to the first resistance providing member <b>146</b>, and the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> rotates in the clockwise direction when viewed from the right side as a result.

0282According to the fifth embodiment, the same operations as those of the first embodiment described above can be attained.

028310. Sixth Embodiment

0284With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 28</figref>, <b>29</b> and <b>30</b>, a sixth embodiment of the cartridge will be described. According to the sixth embodiment, the same or similar components as those in the first embodiment are represented by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

0285According to the first embodiment, a driving force input to the development coupling <b>61</b> is transmitted to the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> via the agitator shaft <b>76</b>. According to the sixth embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 28 and 29</figref>, a driving force input to development coupling <b>61</b> is transmitted to the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> via an outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b>. The outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b> is supported by a front end portion of the cartridge frame <b>31</b>. The outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b> rotates around its central axis A<b>5</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 29</figref>).

0286According to the sixth embodiment, the second agitator gear <b>78</b> is supported by the agitator shaft <b>76</b> so as to be rotatable relative to the agitator shaft <b>76</b>, meaning that no driving force is transmitted from the agitator shaft <b>76</b> to the second agitator gear <b>78</b>.

0287The outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b> is formed substantially in the shape of a column that extends in the left-right direction. Both left-right-direction end portions of the outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b> are supported by a front end portion of the cartridge frame <b>31</b> in such a way that the outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b> can rotate relative to the cartridge frame <b>31</b>. A handle <b>154</b> is supported substantially at the left-right-direction center of the outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b> so as to be rotatable relative to the outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b>. The handle <b>154</b> is for being held by a user.

0288An input gear <b>156</b> is supported on the left end portion of the outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b> so as not to be rotatable relative to the outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b>. The input gear <b>156</b> is for inputting a driving force to the outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b>. More specifically, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 30</figref>, an idle gear <b>158</b> is provided between the input gear <b>156</b> and the first agitator gear <b>72</b>. A pulley <b>157</b> is supported on the right end portion of the outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b> so as not to be rotatable relative to the outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b>.

0289The second agitator gear <b>78</b> is integrally formed with a gear portion <b>159</b> and a pulley portion <b>160</b>.

0290The gear portion <b>159</b> is provided in the right end portion of the second agitator gear <b>78</b>, and engages with the front side of the teeth portion <b>98</b> of the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b>.

0291The pulley portion <b>160</b> is provided in the left end portion of the second agitator gear <b>78</b>. No gear teeth are provided on the pulley portion <b>160</b>.

0292An endless belt <b>161</b> is wound around the pulley portion <b>160</b> and the pulley <b>157</b> of the outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b>.

0293After the warm-up process starts, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 30</figref>, a driving force is transmitted from the development coupling <b>61</b> to the first agitator gear <b>72</b> in a similar way to the above-described first embodiment. Then, the driving force is transmitted from the idle gear <b>158</b> to the input gear <b>156</b>, and then to the outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b>. As a result, the outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b> rotates.

0294As the outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b> rotates, the pulley <b>157</b> rotates together with the outer side rotation shaft <b>155</b>, and the endless belt <b>161</b> therefore moves circumferentially. The driving force is transmitted to the pulley portion <b>160</b> of the second agitator gear <b>78</b> via the endless belt <b>161</b>, and then to the teeth portion <b>98</b> of the tooth-missing gear <b>96</b> through the gear portion <b>159</b> of the second agitator gear <b>78</b>. As a result, the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> rotates in the clockwise direction when viewed from the right side.

0295According to the sixth embodiment, the same operations as those of the first embodiment described above can be attained.

029611. Seventh embodiment

0297With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 31</figref> to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36</figref>, a seventh embodiment of the printer will be described. According to the seventh embodiment, the same or similar components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

0298According to the first embodiment, the electric-power supplying unit <b>33</b> includes the electrode member <b>81</b>, new-product detection gear <b>82</b>, and electric power supply side gear cover <b>83</b>. The electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is provided on the electrode member <b>81</b> so as to project toward the right side. The electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b> is substantially in the shape of a cylindrical tube. The new-product detection gear <b>82</b> is rotatably supported on the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>. During the warm-up process, as the new-product detection gear <b>82</b> rotates, the swing electrode <b>119</b> swings back and forth, thereby regularly blocking the supply of electric power to the electric-power receiving portion <b>88</b>.

0299However, according to the seventh embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 31</figref>, the electric-power supplying unit <b>33</b> is modified to include an electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> that is substantially in the shape of a rectangular plate and a rotation plate <b>166</b> that is substantially in the shape of a circular plate. The electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> is fixedly mounted on the right wall <b>36</b>R. The electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> is made of a conductive material such as metal. The rotation plate <b>166</b> is rotatably mounted on the right wall <b>36</b>R. The rotation plate <b>166</b> is located on the right side of the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b>. The rotation plate <b>166</b> is made of an insulating resin material.

0300More specifically, the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> is located on the right side of the rear end portion of the toner accommodating portion <b>79</b>. The electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> is substantially in the shape of a rectangle when viewed from the side. The electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> is electrically connected to the developing roller shaft <b>30</b> and the supply roller shaft <b>29</b> via an electrode not shown in the diagrams.

0301The rotation plate <b>166</b> is supported on the right wall <b>36</b>R so as to be rotatable about its rotational axis. The rotational axis of the rotation plate <b>166</b> is located on the front side of the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b>. The rear-side half of the rotation plate <b>166</b> overlaps with the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b>. The rotation plate <b>166</b> is formed with two electric-power receiving portion exposure openings <b>168</b>. A covering portion <b>169</b> is defined as an area of the rotation plate <b>166</b> between the electric-power receiving portion exposure openings <b>168</b>.

0302The two electric-power receiving portion exposure openings <b>168</b> are provided in the rotation plate <b>166</b> in opposite sides in the radial direction. The electric-power receiving portion exposure openings <b>168</b> are each formed through the rotation plate <b>166</b>, and are substantially in a fan shape when viewed from the side with a central angle of about 60 degrees.

0303The rotation plate <b>166</b> rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the right side during the warm-up process of the printer <b>1</b>, thereby moving from a first position (See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 32</figref>) to a second position (See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 33</figref>) and then to a third position (See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 34</figref>). At the first position, the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> is exposed via one electric-power receiving portion exposure opening <b>168</b>A. At the second position, the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> is covered with the covering portion <b>169</b>. At the third position, the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> is exposed via the other electric-power receiving portion exposure opening <b>168</b>B.

0304According to the first embodiment, the main-casing-side electrode unit <b>116</b> is provided in the main casing <b>2</b> to supply developing bias to the developing cartridge <b>25</b>. However, according to the seventh embodiment, in place of the main-casing-side electrode unit <b>116</b>, a fixed electrode <b>170</b> and a moving electrode <b>171</b> are provided in the main casing <b>2</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 35</figref>.

0305The fixed electrode <b>170</b> is made of metal, and is formed substantially in an L-shaped bent rod. One end portion of the fixed electrode <b>170</b> is fixed to the main casing <b>2</b> at a location near to the right side of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> when the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>. The fixed electrode <b>170</b> is electrically connected to the bias detection unit <b>133</b>. The fixed electrode <b>170</b> has a free end portion <b>172</b>.

0306The moving electrode <b>171</b> is movably provided in the main casing <b>2</b> at a location close to the right side of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> when the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>. The moving electrode <b>171</b> is made of metal, and is formed substantially in the shape of a column that extends in the left-right direction. The moving electrode <b>171</b> includes a flange portion <b>173</b>. The flange portion <b>173</b> is positioned midway in the left-right direction of the moving electrode <b>171</b>, and protrudes radially outwardly from the moving electrode <b>171</b>. The flange portion <b>173</b> can contact with the free end portion <b>172</b> of the fixed electrode <b>170</b>. The moving electrode <b>171</b> is electrically connected to the power supply <b>132</b>.

0307In the main casing <b>2</b>, the moving electrode <b>171</b> is mounted so as to be slidably movable in the left-right direction, and is normally urged to the left by an urging member (not shown). So, the flange portion <b>173</b> is normally kept at a left-side disconnection position where the flange portion <b>173</b> is separate from the free end portion <b>172</b> of the fixed electrode <b>170</b> to the left side.

0308When the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is not mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>, the moving electrode <b>171</b> is placed at the left-side disconnection position (See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 35</figref>). Therefore, no developing bias is supplied from the power supply <b>132</b> to the developing cartridge <b>25</b> and the fixed electrode <b>170</b>, and the bias detection unit <b>133</b> does not detect supply of developing bias from the power supply <b>132</b> to the fixed electrode <b>170</b>. Thus, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that no developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>170</b>.

0309If the bias detection unit <b>133</b> does not detect supply of developing bias from the power supply <b>132</b> to the fixed electrode <b>170</b> continuously for the predetermined period of time or longer, then the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is not mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>.

0310After the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is completely mounted in the main casing <b>2</b> with the rotation plate <b>166</b> placed at the first position, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36A</figref>, the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> comes in contact with the left end portion of the moving electrode <b>171</b> from the left side via one electric-power receiving portion exposure opening <b>168</b> of the rotation plate <b>166</b>. Then, the moving electrode <b>171</b> is pushed from the left side by the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, and slides to the right side against the urging force of the urging member (not shown). As a result, the flange portion <b>173</b> of the moving electrode <b>171</b> comes in contact with the free end portion <b>172</b> of the fixed electrode <b>170</b>. In other words, the moving electrode <b>171</b> is placed at the connection position.

0311So, the developing bias supplied from the power supply <b>132</b> to the moving electrode <b>171</b> is supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> via the left end portion of the moving electrode <b>171</b>. The developing bias supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> is applied to the developing roller shaft <b>30</b>.

0312The developing bias is also supplied from the flange portion <b>173</b> to the fixed electrode <b>170</b> via the free end portion <b>172</b>, and is detected by the bias detection unit <b>133</b>.

0313The CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>170</b>.

0314After a warm-up operation starts, the rotation plate <b>166</b> rotates in the counterclockwise direction when viewed from the right side, and the rotation plate <b>166</b> is placed at the second position.

0315As a result, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36B</figref>, the covering portion <b>169</b> of the rotation plate <b>166</b> is inserted into between the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> and the moving electrode <b>171</b>. The moving electrode <b>171</b> retracts from the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> to the right side against the urging force of the urging member (not shown), and is placed at the right side disconnection position.

0316Accordingly, the moving electrode <b>171</b> moves away from the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> to the right side, and the moving electrode <b>171</b> is electrically disconnected from the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> as a result. Moreover, the moving electrode <b>171</b> is moved away from the free end portion <b>172</b> of the fixed electrode <b>170</b> to the right side, and the moving electrode <b>171</b> is electrically disconnected from the fixed electrode <b>170</b> as a result.

0317At this time, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that no developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>170</b>.

0318Then, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36C</figref>, the rotation plate <b>166</b> further rotates in the counterclockwise direction when viewed from the right side, and is placed at the third position. The moving electrode <b>171</b> is moved to the left side due to the urging force of the urging member (not shown), and is placed at the connection position where the moving electrode <b>171</b> is in contact with the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> via the other electric-power receiving portion exposure opening <b>168</b> of the rotation plate <b>166</b>.

0319At this time, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>170</b>.

0320The CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is a new (unused) product if the CPU <b>131</b> determines, after the warm-up operation has started, that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>170</b>, then the supply of the developing bias to the fixed electrode <b>170</b> temporarily stops, and then the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>170</b> again.

0321If the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>170</b> continuously for the predetermined period of time or more, then the CPU <b>131</b> determines that a developing cartridge <b>25</b> is being mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>.

0322According to the seventh embodiment, the rotation plate <b>166</b> having the two electric-power receiving portion exposure openings <b>168</b> is provided between the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> and the moving electrode <b>171</b>, and rotates from the first position to the second position and then to the third position. At the first position, the rotation plate <b>166</b> allows electric power to be supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> via one electric-power receiving portion exposure opening <b>168</b>. At the second position, the rotation plate <b>166</b> blocks supply of electric power to the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> by the covering portion <b>169</b>. At the third position, the rotation plate <b>166</b> allows electric power to be supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> via the other electric-power receiving portion exposure opening <b>168</b>.

0323Such a simple configuration ensures that the moving electrode <b>171</b> slides in the main casing <b>2</b> and switches supply of electric power to the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> between the ON and OFF states.

0324According to the seventh embodiment, the same operations as those of the first embodiment described above can be attained.

032512. Eighth embodiment

0326With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 37</figref> to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 41</figref>, an eighth embodiment of the printer <b>1</b> will be described. According to the eighth embodiment, the same or similar components as those in the seventh embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

0327According to the seventh embodiment, the rotation plate <b>166</b> is provided on the right side of the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b>. As the rotation plate <b>166</b> rotates, supply of electric power to the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> is switched between the ON and OFF states.

0328According to the eighth embodiment, in place of the rotation plate <b>166</b>, a slide plate <b>181</b> is slidably mounted on the right side of the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b>. The slide plate <b>181</b> has a covering portion <b>180</b>. The slide plate <b>181</b> slides in the front-back direction in such a way that the covering portion <b>180</b> moves along the right side of the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> from the rear side to the front side.

0329More specifically, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 37</figref>, a support rail <b>184</b> and a pinion gear <b>183</b> are further provided on the right wall <b>36</b>R. The slide plate <b>181</b> is supported by the support rail <b>184</b> so that the slide plate <b>181</b> can slide in the front-back direction along the support rail <b>184</b>. The pinion gear <b>183</b> is for inputting a driving force to the slide plate <b>181</b>.

0330The slide plate <b>181</b> is formed substantially in a U-shape when viewed from the side, with the opening of the U shape facing rearwardly. The slide plate <b>181</b> has the covering portion <b>180</b> and a rack portion <b>182</b>.

0331The covering portion <b>180</b> is substantially in a rectangular plate shape when viewed from the side. A front end portion of the covering portion <b>180</b> is gradually inclined to the right side in a direction toward the rear side.

0332The rack portion <b>182</b> is substantially in a rod shape that extends from the lower end portion of the covering portion <b>180</b> to the front side. Gear teeth are formed on the upper surface of the rack portion <b>182</b>.

0333The support rail <b>184</b> includes a pair of upper and lower rail portions <b>185</b>. The two rail portions <b>185</b> are spaced apart from each other in the up-down direction, and face each other. The rail portions <b>185</b> support the upper and lower end portions of the slide plate <b>181</b> from the up-down direction outside so that the slide plate <b>181</b> can slide relative to the rail portions <b>185</b>.

0334The pinion gear <b>183</b> is supported on the right wall <b>36</b>R so as to be rotatable relative to the right wall <b>36</b>R. More specifically, the pinion gear <b>183</b> is supported on the agitator shaft <b>76</b> so as not to be rotatable relative to the agitator shaft <b>76</b>. The pinion gear <b>183</b> is located on the right wall <b>36</b>R at a position between the two rail portions <b>185</b>, and is engaged with the upper side of the rack portion <b>182</b>.

0335During a warm-up operation of the printer <b>1</b>, the slide plate <b>181</b> slides from the rear side to the front side, thereby moving from a first position (See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 38</figref>) to a second position (See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 39</figref>) and then to a third position (See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 40</figref>). At the first position, the covering portion <b>180</b> is positioned on the rear side of the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b>, thereby exposing the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b>. At the second position, the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> is covered with the covering portion <b>180</b>. At the third position, the covering portion <b>180</b> is positioned on the front side of the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b>, thereby exposing the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b>.

0336When the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is not mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>, the moving electrode <b>171</b> is kept at the left side disconnection position (See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 35</figref>), similarly to the seventh embodiment.

0337At this time, no developing bias is supplied from the power supply <b>132</b> to the developing cartridge <b>25</b> and the fixed electrode <b>170</b>, and the bias detection unit <b>133</b> does not detect supply of developing bias from the power supply <b>132</b> to the fixed electrode <b>170</b>. Thus, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that no developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>170</b>.

0338If the bias detection unit <b>133</b> does not detect supply of developing bias from the power supply <b>132</b> to the fixed electrode <b>170</b> continuously for the predetermined period of time or longer, then the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is not mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>.

0339After the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is completely mounted in the main casing <b>2</b> with the slide plate <b>181</b> placed at the first position, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 41A</figref>, the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> comes in contact with the left end portion of the moving electrode <b>171</b> from the left side. Then, the moving electrode <b>171</b> is pushed from the left side by the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, and slides to the right side against the urging force of the urging member (not shown). As a result, the flange portion <b>173</b> of the moving electrode <b>171</b> comes in contact with the free end portion <b>172</b> of the fixed electrode <b>170</b>. In other words, the moving electrode <b>171</b> is placed at the connection position.

0340So, the developing bias supplied from the power supply <b>132</b> to the moving electrode <b>171</b> is supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> of the developing cartridge <b>25</b> via the left end portion of the moving electrode <b>171</b>. The developing bias supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> is applied to the developing roller shaft <b>30</b>.

0341The developing bias is also supplied from the flange portion <b>173</b> to the fixed electrode <b>170</b> via the free end portion <b>172</b>, and is detected by the bias detection unit <b>133</b>.

0342The CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>170</b>.

0343After a warm-up operation starts, the slide plate <b>181</b> slides in the forward direction of the developing cartridge <b>25</b>, and the slide plate <b>181</b> is placed at the second position.

0344As a result, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 41B</figref>, the covering portion <b>180</b> of the slide plate <b>181</b> is inserted into between the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> and the moving electrode <b>171</b>. The moving electrode <b>171</b> retracts from the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> to the right side against the urging force of the urging member (not shown), and is placed at the right side disconnection position.

0345Accordingly, the moving electrode <b>171</b> moves away from the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> to the right side, and the moving electrode <b>171</b> is electrically disconnected from the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> as a result. Moreover, the moving electrode <b>171</b> is moved away from the free end portion <b>172</b> of the fixed electrode <b>170</b> to the right side, and the moving electrode <b>171</b> is electrically disconnected from the fixed electrode <b>170</b> as a result.

0346At this time, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that no developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>170</b>.

0347Then, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 41C</figref>, the slide plate <b>181</b> further slides in the forward direction, and is placed at the third position. The moving electrode <b>171</b> is moved to the left side due to the urging force of the urging member (not shown), and is placed at the connection position where the moving electrode <b>171</b> is in contact with the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b>.

0348At this time, the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>170</b>.

0349The CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing cartridge <b>25</b> is a new (unused) product if the CPU <b>131</b> determines, after the warm-up operation has started, that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>170</b>, then the supply of the developing bias to the fixed electrode <b>170</b> temporarily stops, and then the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>170</b> again.

0350If the CPU <b>131</b> determines that the developing bias is supplied to the fixed electrode <b>170</b> continuously for the predetermined period of time or more, then the CPU <b>131</b> determines that a developing cartridge <b>25</b> is being mounted in the main casing <b>2</b>.

0351According to the eighth embodiment, the slide plate <b>181</b> having the covering portion <b>180</b> is provided between the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> and the moving electrode <b>171</b>, and slides or linearly moves from the first position to the second position and then to the third position. At the first position, the slide plate <b>181</b> allows electric power to be supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b>. At the second position, the slide plate <b>181</b> blocks supply of electric power to the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> by the covering portion <b>180</b>. At the third position, the slide plate <b>181</b> allows electric power to be supplied to the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b>.

0352Such a simple configuration ensures that the moving electrode <b>171</b> slides in the main casing <b>2</b> and switches supply of electric power to the electric-power receiving portion <b>167</b> between the ON and OFF states.

0353According to the eighth embodiment, the same operations as those of the seventh embodiment described above can be attained.

0354While the invention has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments thereof, it would be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention.